During my last 2 days in Singapore, I was busy settling some administrative stuff, packing my luggage, and doing last minute catch-up with different bunch of friends. Then there was someone (actually, many others too) who wanted to meet me urgently before my flight.

I have known this someone for close to a decade, although we have only gotten closer in the recent years. He recognizes me from all my serving in the Security ministry, as well as the few overseas mission trips that I went for and had the privilege to serve together with key Pastors of the church.

There were several instances when he would chat with me whenever we bumped into each other in church, but we never really had the opportunity to really engage in a proper conversation.

He knows I support Chelsea FC, and would always talk to me about Chelsea and Torres when the team wasn’t doing so well under Villas-Boas’ period of management.

I knew that it would definitely be a blessing and privilege for me to have an hour of his time, despite his busy and hectic schedule. Hence, I postponed all plans and arranged to meet him the following evening, only hours before my flight.

We caught up over coffee and it was a very personal time for the both of us. Firstly, he thanked me for standing by the church for the past 2.5 difficult years, and then he prayed for me as I embarked on this new journey in my ife. He further encouraged me by assuring me that I am always able to approach him for help, in any form and any way.

The next day, after I left Singapore, he texted me and checked if I had arrived in Thailand, and whether I am settling in well.

That weekend, he texted me again, just to wish me a good weekend and to make sure I am able to catch the web broadcast of the church service.

His ability to relate to anyone amazes me. I am not an easy person to relate to (and to love), but I have been undeservedly blessed by his sincerity and the effort that he has put into my life.

I thank God for Pastor Aries.
Thanks for manifesting Christ-likeness into my life.